GREENVILLE, S.C. (Interstat) — The Louisville women’s basketball team used a dominant defensive effort and a near-perfect performance from the free-throw line to secure a 65-54 victory over Clemson in an Atlantic Coast Conference matchup on Sunday at Bi-Lo Center.

Despite a slow offensive start for both teams, Louisville improved its record to 3-1 overall, while Clemson fell to 3-2.

The game was ultimately decided at the charity stripe. Louisville converted 14 of its 15 free-throw attempts, a stark contrast to Clemson, which managed just 4 of 14 from the line. This 10-point disparity proved insurmountable for the Lady Tigers in a contest where offensive efficiency was at a premium.

Louisville’s offense, while not explosive, was more effective in capitalizing on opportunities. The Cardinals scored 23 points off 17 Clemson turnovers, compared to the Lady Tigers’ 13 points off 13 Louisville turnovers. Both teams were nearly even in field goal percentage, with Louisville shooting 24 for 55 and Clemson finishing 23 for 48, but the Cardinals’ ability to generate more possessions and convert from the foul line made the difference.

Laura Ziegler led all players with a double-double, scoring 17 points and grabbing 10 rebounds for Louisville. She was instrumental in controlling the paint and was a perfect 4-for-4 from the free-throw line in the game’s final minutes to seal the victory. Tajianna Roberts added 12 points and four assists for the Cardinals, while Reyna Scott contributed 10 points and five rebounds off the bench.

Clemson was led by Rusne Augustinaite, who scored 17 points. Mia Moore filled the stat sheet with 11 points, eight rebounds and five assists before fouling out late in the game. Raven Thompson also reached double figures for the Lady Tigers with 12 points.

The first half was a defensive struggle, with Louisville taking a narrow lead into halftime. The Cardinals began to create separation in the third quarter, maintaining their composure as Clemson’s offense continued to sputter. The Lady Tigers struggled to find any consistent rhythm, and their shooting woes from the free-throw line prevented any sustained comeback attempt in the fourth quarter.

Louisville’s defense held Clemson to an offensive rating of 81.0 points per 100 possessions, while the Cardinals posted a rating of 94.0 themselves. The win gives Louisville momentum heading into its next contest against Morehead State on Wednesday. Clemson will look to rebound when it travels to face Furman next Sunday.